I just got back a few weeks ago. You're right, it's a beautiful trekking area that's perfect for all types of people to share. Very accessible, at least in the parts I was in. Unfortunately, I ran out of time to check out the trails outside the loop. I didn't make it to Piedras Blancas and Lago Toro, darn, but thanks for the photos.

And like you, I didn't feel it was crowded on the trails, despite the people you see in camp and know are in town (full hostels but quiet streets).

I was really lucky with the weather.

Your first picture of the Tarptent DB w/Kristin, was that at the Piedmas Campsite? (I think that's the name, close to Lagunas de la Tres) I think I camped in that exact same spot.

Did you find El Chalten got brutally windy after 5 pm? I camped in town a couple of nights and was right in thinking the sites inside the park would have been better sheltered.

Brings back good memories. I also recall some very intelligent and acrobatic mice at the campspots. At night they seemed to enjoy using my tent as a trampoline among other entertaining stunts. Are they still there?